Hey all,
Over the last few weeks I've shared that I took a Kinesiology Taping course to become certified to do this work. My interest in K-tape started while I was in high school (2000-2004) and playing sports- I have been taped for a number of issues with many different kinds of tape. For me, the most effective in treating injuries and enhancing performance has been any kind of Kinesio Taping, when done correctly. This taping has been around since the 1970s, but became more mainstream in when Kerri Walsh Jennings sported some on her shoulder during her beach volleyball games in the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. I like Kinesio taping best because it is much less restrictive than any kind of bandaging, when full range of motion is still indicated to help the individual heal. As someone who has very sensitive skin, I also find it is one of the least abrasive taping methods. Because the K-tape is supportive, but doesn't restrict range of motion, clients and patients can continue to do physical therapy and other exercises beneficial to recovery. Aside from offering support, because of the way the tape adheres to the skin, it lifts up the skin, allowing for space under the surface to promote proper circulation and increased blood flow, offering healing to an otherwise ischemic (Lacking blood flow.) area. There is taping specific to reducing pain, decreasing inflammation, breaking up scar tissue, and enhancing athletic performance. I am lucky enough, working with The Charlotte Hornets, to see this applied in a variety of ways with the team- The guys really love it too! The tape usually lasts at least 3-5 days, even through showering and sleeping- Some brands of tape and activity do affect the longevity of it remaining on the skin, however. Because of the tape not needing to be removed and reapplied each time a person sleeps, showers, or works out, this is another reason why this method is so attractive to practitioners. Massage Therapists, Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, Occupational Therapists, and Athletic Trainers are all people who can train in this work and use it with their patients and clients. During the last several years I have continued to use taping as a way to treat some of my chronic injuries. Because I was only self-educated, aside from the little review of it I had in massage school, I've only practiced K-taping on myself until recently. Since taking the course in early February, I have done some practical work on 3 of my regular massage clients- All have had very good outcomes and offered me excellent feedback! I preferred to do some trial runs before I did the work regularly, and while I am sure I will continue to make some mistakes, I am confident I can help my clients using this wonderful tool regularly- It also gives me another way to help beyond the four walls of my home office or the arena, and for that I am grateful! If you're wishing to know more or book a session, please message me or comment on this post. I am always happy to help!! Thanks for reading and may you all be well! Much Love, Christina |
Author-Christina is a Bodywork Therapist and Yoga Teacher in the Charlotte, NC area with a passion for writing. Thank you so much for taking the time to read this blog!! Archives
August 2019
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